Those of us who are believers – Christians – disciples of Christ should know and practice the real reason for the Christmas season – our Lord Jesus Christ but all too often, there is a predominant practice of focusing on Santa and secular elements. It is a personal choice whether to balance faith with tradition and fun but the emphasis for Christians should be faith and a recognition of His birth.
A writer, Barb Cash, wrote a thought-provoking poem about the focus of Santa over Jesus.
Santa in the Manger
We got a card the other day
A Christmas one, in fact,
But it really was the strangest thing
And showed such little tact.
For laying in the manger
Was Santa, big as life,
Surrounded by some little elves
And Rudolph and his wife.
There was so much excitement
That the shepherds saw the glow
Of Rudolph’s bright and shining nose
Reflected on the snow.
So in they rushed to see him
Followed by the wise men three,
Who came not bearing any gifts—
Just some stockings and a tree.
They gathered round about him
To sing praises to his name;
A song about Saint Nicholas
And how he came to fame.
Then they handed him the lists they’d made
Of, oh, so many toys
That they were sure they would receive
For being such good boys.
And sure enough, he chuckled,
While reaching in his bag,
And placed in all their outstretched hands
A gift that bore a tag.
And on that tag was printed
A simple verse that read,
“Even though it’s Jesus’ birthday,
Please take this gift instead.”
Then I realized they really did
Know Who this day was for
Though by every indication
They had just chosen to ignore.
And Jesus looked upon this scene,
His eyes so filled with pain—
They said this year would be different
But they’d forgotten Him again.
Hopefully, WE won’t forget Him! It is okay to have fun, to make and recall memories, give gifts, and eat yummy food. But we should celebrate the fact that God sent His only begotten son to live on this earth as a man to later die for us that we could enjoy eternal life with Him. He is our greatest gift who came to redeem and save us. It is in Him that we find hope, grace, mercy, truth, and salvation.
“And she shall bring forth a son, and you shall call His name JESUS: for He shall save His people from their sins.” Matthew 1:21
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
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